Rice prices which had escalated during the last few weeks, are expected to come down and stabilise in the next few days as a result of imports from India and Pakistan.
Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Jeyaraj Fernandopulle said prices would be stable until February. A total of 150,000 MT of rice would be imported out of which 30,000 to 40,000 MT of rice would arrive in a week's time. This measure would stabilise the prices even during the Christmas season where prices are normally jacked-up due to enhanced demand.
The rice prices would come down and stabilise around Rs. 35 for 1 KG of Samba, Nadu Rs. 28.50, Red Rs. 30 and Basmathi at Rs. 45 per kilo. "This measure however would not affect the local farmer very much as in the present scenario it would not be unreasonable", Fernandopulle opined.
The Minister refuted allegations of former Minister and UNP Parliamentarian Kabir Hashim who had claimed that the rice already imported was of poor quality and above the standard price. "I would challenge anyone to get down rice at a cheaper price. How can Kabir Hashim ascertain the quality of the rice when nobody, including myself has not even tasted or seen the rice imported?" he asked.
He also said that the coconut prices too would be stabilised around Rs. 13 to Rs. 15, despite a seasonal shortage until May next year, due to a comparatively low yield and the increased demand for coconuts resulting in a price hike of desiccated coconut, Rs. 90 to Rs. 100 per kilo, the highest ever recorded.
"We are closely monitoring the situation in consultation with the Coconut Cultivation Board", he said.